This study involves research to investigate how estrogen affects women of childbearing age and its correlation to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The findings from this study might help determine how body cells, called T Cells, react to estrogen. The study will seek to determine if cells from women with Lupus, react differently from cells in persons without Lupus. We will attempt to identify genetic factors that determine the effects of estrogen on Lupus cells.

Females who are still childbearing age, not on hormones, with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, still cycling.

Other: Peripheral lab draws

100ml blood for analysis, taken no more than 4 times in one year.

Detailed Description:

This is a 3-year study. The total number of subjects enrolled will depend on the results obtained. The subjects will be at least 18 years of age and pre-menopausal. Exclusion to include pregnant women, and all subjects are told not to get pregnant while on study. Also, they cannot take hormones by mouth or patch while on study. The study can include healthy subjects as well. Blood will be drawn (120 ml) four times a year, randomly.

Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study:

18 Years to 50 Years

Genders Eligible for Study:

Female

Accepts Healthy Volunteers:

Yes

Sampling Method:

Non-Probability Sample

Study Population

Female subjects with SLE and still cycling, not on hormones, compared to normal controls, female subjects still cycling, also not on hormones and not diagnosed with SLE.

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

female subjects with Lupus, and female subjects without Lupus. age at least 18, not pregnant and not planning to get pregnant.

Exclusion Criteria:

Pregnant or planning to get pregnant. On hormone replacement, or birth control of any kind.

Contacts and Locations

Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study.
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below.
For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.

Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00519454